Karachi approves $88 million plan to rebuild crumbling roads, drainage networks

KARACHI: Chief Minister of Pakistan’s southern Sindh province, Murad Ali Shah, has approved Rs25 billion ($88.3 million) for the reconstruction of 60 major roads and 315 streets along with drainage systems in provincial capital and the country’s financial hub of Karachi, Shah’s office said on Monday.

In Karachi, a city of over 20 million, daily travel has become perilous for commuters who have to navigate potholes, craters and uncovered manholes every few meters across major roads and streets.

Years of neglect and a lack of accountability worsened by recent monsoon rains have made it even more difficult for people to move around the sprawling 3,780-square-kilometer metropolis.

In a statement issued from his office, CM Shah said he has ordered immediate reconstruction of roads in the city to provide relief to citizens suffering from dilapidated infrastructure and traffic congestion.

“Karachi’s roads are in a state of disrepair following the heavy rains. Furthermore, ongoing mega projects are contributing to traffic woes,” he was quoted as saying. “I want development work in the city to be expedited so that the public does not have to endure further hardship.”

The dilapidated roads in the city have resulted in a number of road crashes and accidents during rains in recent years, drawing criticism from residents.

Critics say the use of low-quality construction materials and accumulated rainwater due to the absence of proper drainage system cause erosion of roads. Numerous videos shared on social media show motorbikes and commuters falling into uncovered potholes and ditches on dilapidated roads.

During a meeting of officials, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab told Shah that 60 major roads and 315 inner-city streets were severely damaged and required attention under the proposed rehabilitation plan.

“The sewerage system for the streets being built must be properly constructed,” Shah directed.